Over the years, people have asked me to create a very simple, and affordable ECU (now called EADL) package for PC's.  I wanted an all-in-one product would enable control of all IR (infrared) devices (stereo, cable, DVD, etc.) AND X-10 adapted appliances (read on).

On this page are 2 solutions, both using the same PC software, my PTP-PC for EADL.  And since we are using a PC (laptop, desktop, or tablet, like my Auggie), all alternate input devices are supported, such as joystick, switch, and many others!

First, my most recent, and completely wireless, but also more expensive:

1) RedEye Wifi/IR Blaster



Internet Explorer (or any browser) on my PC (or Mac) controlling the RedEye
(all alternative input devices supported)
(Click on pics for larger image)

• OR for more 'specialized' situations, my PTP-PC for EADL (see below for specifics on the program).
  

This picture is my $999 Auggie 'ipad-like' Windown 7 tablet, running my PTP-PC for EADL software (for any PC with any version of Windows), showing the main remote contoller Board.

This picture is from my PTP-PC for EADL software running on a PC (any version of Windows), showing the VCR Board.  There are customizable Boards for TV/Cable/Satellite, DVD, Stereo, CD, and X10/Insteon devices.

2) USB-UIRT

Back in 2005, I found a very small USB-to-IR adapter that can be Velcro'd to my devices and operated, with some modifications that we did, on my PTP-PC AAC software that comes on my Auggies.  It worked great!  The Auggies didn't even need to be pointed at the devices!  This device comes with an 8" cable and a USB extension cable if you need it longer.  Communication with the PC It is not wireless.  Communication (IR sending) is wireless (Infrared), of course.


Then I thought, why not make this generally available to those even without an Auggie. And poof, the "EADL Package" was born!

1) Install the USB-to-IR driver software.
2) Plug in the USB-to-IR adapter.
3) Point it in the general direction of the IR devices.
4) Load the PTP-PC for EADL software (below, or Auggie owners, you already have it on your Auggie!)
5) Train it for your existing desired remotes/commands (I've made this really simple and it actually *works*!).
6) Away you go!

---

But without great software, the above hardware wouldn't do that much.  Here are the relevent screen shots of setup in PTP-PC for EADL for the EADL Package.

Now, never being satisfied, I also wanted users to be able to control actual appliances, such as lights, fans, etc., I needed X10 control.  X10 is a tried-and-tested adapter system for almost everything electrically operated in the home, even some things that you would never think could be operated electrically (check out SmartHome).  With the addition of the IR-to-X10 Adapter, PTP-PC for EADL sends IR signals, through the USB-to-IR adapter, TO the IR-to-X10 Adapter.  That adapter, which plugs into your wall socket, sends ultrasonic signals through your house AC wiring, to X10 adapters that have your desired appliance/light/etc. plugged into them.  There are even in-wall X10 adapters.  The system is seamless and works beautifully, for very little money!  I've seen a similar system for $6000!